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HB 1542

Public Health - Goods, Services, or Technologies Used in Death Sentences - Prohibition

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Rosenberg

Maryland bill bans manufacture and sale of goods/services intended for executions, expanding the state's capital punishment prohibition to restrict interstate commerce.

Hearing 3/10 at 1:00 p.m. (Judiciary)
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Bill Summary · HB 1542

Legislative bill overview

HB 1542 prohibits the manufacture, sale, distribution, or use of goods, services, or technologies specifically intended for carrying out death sentences in Maryland. The bill effectively blocks the supply chain for execution-related materials and equipment within the state.

Why is this important

Maryland abolished capital punishment in 2013, making executions illegal. However, this bill closes a potential loophole by preventing in-state businesses from profiting from or facilitating executions elsewhere. It reflects ongoing national debate about whether states should restrict commerce related to capital punishment, even for out-of-state use.

Potential points of contention

  • Commerce clause concerns: Critics may argue the bill restricts interstate commerce by preventing Maryland businesses from selling legally-available products to other states that retain capital punishment
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's scope depends heavily on how "specifically intended for" executions is defined—overly broad definitions could affect medical, pharmaceutical, or equipment suppliers
  • Enforcement challenges: Monitoring what goods are "intended for" execution use versus legitimate medical or industrial purposes could prove difficult and costly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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